Food that is high in calories, is highly processed, and is very low in nutrients is labeled as junk food. It also contains high levels of added sugars, salts, and saturated or trans fats. Addiction to junk food can be compared to addiction to drugs and alcohol. The term ‘fast food’ is coined for the food that is prepared very quickly and is eaten very fast too. There are some healthier fast food options but generally, fast food is considered as junk food. Here are some effects of consuming junk food.
Effects of consuming junk food
- A diet that constitutes of high quantities of junk food is directly linked with obesity. It also increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, depression, digestive disorders, cancer, type-2 diabetes, and early death.
- Research has shown that the consumption of fast food more than once in a week is directly associated with obesity.
- The consumption of fast food more than twice in a week is directly linked to type-2 diabetes and death from heart disease.
How does junk food affect human health
- It will change the metabolism.
- The muscles will lose the ability to turn glucose into energy, which, in the long-term could cause insulin resistance that would lead to type-2 diabetes.
- Junk food does not contain fiber and it can cause poor digestion and constipation.
- It can also increase blood pressure.
- It will make you feel hungry and tired.
- For people who suffer from asthma, junk food can worsen the situation.
- There is good news: the consumption of healthy meals will counteract the effect of junk food. Exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet that includes lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains will make the body adapt to occasional junk food.
